Award-winning reference photos
How to identify Kujaku
- Metallic shine should be visible across the head, body, and fins.
- Reticulation gives the body a pinecone-like pattern.
- Orange or red markings sit over the metallic reticulated ground.
Quality points
- Luster should be even; a dull head or fins weakens the impression.
- Reticulation should be orderly from shoulder to tail.
- Pattern should support the body shape instead of hiding it.
Common comparison
Compare Kujaku with Ogon. Ogon is single-color metallic; Kujaku adds reticulation and a patterned overlay.
Mesh, red pattern, and metallic luster
The JAS definition brings three features together: Asagi-ji mesh, red markings on the back, and whole-body shine. A shiny fish with dark scale centers alone is not enough to identify Kujaku.
Compare with Goshiki for the netted ground and with Ginrin for the kind of shine: flashes from individual scales are not the same feature as whole-body metallic luster. Officially recognized Doitsu Kujaku has greatly reduced scales, so do not demand a full mesh of ordinary scales in that form.
Definition: All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion Association — JAS Kujaku.
| Look first at | Good sign | Beginner caution |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Balanced frame, smooth swimming, no deformity. | Do not let rare color hide weak conformation. |
| Skin and color | Clean, readable, and consistent for the variety. | Muddy color usually becomes more distracting with size. |
| Scale or luster trait | Even rows, sparkle, reticulation, or metallic quality depending on the group. | Random patches, dull fins, or broken scale rows reduce impression. |
Sources and editorial note
This page follows the variety structure used by Japanese koi references and the book notes in the My Koi Garden research library, especially the distinction between true variety groups and cross-cutting traits such as Doitsu and Gin Rin. Photos are limited to real images with source and license notes.